Friday, November 22, 2013

Charred Broccolini and Kimchi Aioli with Almonds (Paleo, Vegan, GF)

I love kimchi! I make my own and I still have to buy it when I run out. It makes the perfect snack right out of the jar, and it renders even the most bland dishes irresistible if they're topped with this spicy, fermented magic.

If you're buying kimchi at the store, look for the vegetarian kind. Some more traditional recipes contain fish, fish sauce, or even oysters. So if you don't want any fermented oysters, look for the vegetarian kind. Whole Foods usually has it. They stock Sunja's brand, which is great.

Here we've taken broccolini and lightly charred it under the broiler to bring out the nutty, meaty flavor. We topped it with an amazing sauce made with just two ingredients: kimchi and mayo. Don't be fooled by the simplicity -- it packs a powerful punch! This dish is fun to eat with your hands. Just pick the broccolini up by the stem, swirl it around in the sauce, and chomp. It's maybe like some healthier kimchi fries? You'll love eating your vegetables when they taste this good!

Into your immersion blender cup, place the kimchi and the mayonnaise. Blend until smooth. You may also use your regular blender or food processor. Set sauce aside until ready to plate.Place broccolini in a covered, microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 2 minutes. Allow it to sit, covered, for another 2 minutes so that the steam tenderizes it. Uncover and toss it with the sesame oil.Turn the broiler on high. Once it has heated up, place the broccolini on a baking sheet and under the broiler with the door cracked for 3 to 4 minutes or until the stalks start to blister. Season with Kosher salt and white pepper to taste. Place some of the sauce on a large plate and top it with the roasted broccolini. Add more sauce on top along with the toasted almonds. (Makes 2 servings.)